Airports Company South Africa (Acsa), the Fuels Industry Association of Southern Africa (Fiasa), and the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (Natref) are working closely to address the impact of a recent refinery fire on jet fuel supply at OR Tambo International Airport.

The fire, which occurred on 4 January 2025 at the Natref refinery, damaged Natref’s crude distillation unit. Repairs are expected to restore functionality by 21 February 2025. In the interim, Acsa and industry partners have implemented several risk mitigation measures to ensure uninterrupted airport operations.

Jet fuel reserves and mitigation efforts

Acsa has confirmed that its existing reserves can sustain jet fuel availability at OR Tambo until 20 January. To address the potential shortfall, a planned 31 000m³ fuel injection from Durban will begin on 14 January, with delivery anticipated by 27 January.

Rail routes from Durban and Matola (Mozambique) are also being prioritised to increase fuel volumes. Furthermore, the fuel industry is sourcing supplies from other airports and implementing direct injections to Natref to bolster availability during this period.

Acsa noted that despite these measures, industry stakeholders are actively working to mitigate any potential supply disruptions between 20 and 27 January.

Commitment to operations

Acsa has assured airlines, passengers, and stakeholders that all necessary actions are being taken to ensure uninterrupted operations at OR Tambo. The airport’s operations remain stable, and an update on the situation will be provided on Tuesday, 14 January.

Passengers are encouraged to check the Acsa app for the latest updates.

SOURCE:OR Tambo could face another fuel shortage within 7 days – Moneyweb